The sun beat down on Alex's neck as he approached the colossal gates of Aethel Castle. Intricate carvings depicting fantastical creatures adorned the sturdy oak doors. Two imposing guards, clad in gleaming silver armor, stood at attention on either side.
"Halt!" boomed one of the guards, his voice deep and gravelly. "State your business, stranger."
Alex swallowed his nervousness. "I'm Alex Evans," he replied, trying to sound confident. "New arrival. Looking to register as an adventurer."
The guards exchanged a skeptical glance. "Newbie, huh?" the other guard chuckled, a rough sound devoid of humor. "This ain't a playground, lad. Aethel's a harsh mistress. One wrong step, and you'll be back at square one... minus a chunk of your memories."
Alex's heart hammered in his chest. The voice from the void hadn't exaggerated the cost of death. He squared his shoulders, a determined glint flashing in his eyes. "I'm aware of the risks. I'm here to learn, fight, and carve my own path."
The guards seemed impressed by his resolve. The first one nodded curtly. "Alright, follow us. Guild Master Elara will give you the lowdown."
They led him through the imposing gate, and Alex marveled at the bustling scene within. Adventurers of all shapes and sizes milled about, their attire hinting at their chosen professions. A hulking orc warrior hefted a monstrous battleaxe, while a nimble elf archer adjusted her quiver of glowing arrows. A cloaked figure, presumably a mage, muttered cryptic incantations to a floating orb of light.
Inside the castle, a warm, inviting atmosphere replaced the imposing exterior. Banners depicting various monsters adorned the walls, and the air buzzed with a mix of excitement and tension. They arrived at a large oak door emblazoned with a crossed sword and staff.
"This is it, kid," one of the guards said, pushing the door open a crack. "Don't say we didn't warn you."
Alex took a deep breath of stale air and stepped inside.
A stern-faced woman with piercing blue eyes sat behind a cluttered desk. Her silver hair was pulled back in a tight bun, and her gaze held the authority of a seasoned warrior. This must be Guild Master Elara.
"You must be the new arrival," she stated flatly, not bothering with pleasantries. "State your name and desired class."
"Alex Evans," he replied, clearing his throat. "As for class... I'm open to suggestions."
Elara arched an eyebrow. Unskilled newcomers were a dime a dozen. She placed a worn leather scroll on the desk. "This lists all available classes in Aethel. Take your time. But choose wisely. Your class determines your skill set, path, and even limitations."
Alex scanned the scroll. Classes like Warrior, Mage, and Rogue were listed, alongside more specialized options like Beastmaster, Necromancer, and Bard. But none of them felt quite right.
Suddenly, a memory from his past life flickered – a book he'd read about the ancient philosophers who contemplated death. His eyes darted to a section of the scroll titled "Unorthodox Classes." There, nestled amongst entries like "Chronomancer" and "Dream Weaver," was a single word: "Revenant."
A shiver ran down his spine. This class could be a perfect fit. But its description was shrouded in mystery: "Those who have cheated death and wield its power. Skills and limitations unknown."
"Guild Master," Alex asked, curiosity piqued, "what about the Revenant class?"
Elara's eyes narrowed. "A curious choice for a newbie. It's a rare and secretive class. Little is known about their abilities, but rumors speak of a connection to the afterlife and powerful death-related magic. Are you sure you can handle such a burden?"
Alex met her gaze with unwavering determination. "I died in my old life. Now, I want to understand death and perhaps even master it. Revenant is the path I choose."
A flicker of surprise crossed Elara's face. This newcomer was certainly bold. With a sigh, she handed him another scroll. "This will guide you through the basic Revenant training. But be warned, child, the path you've chosen is fraught with danger and unknowns. The power of death comes at a price."
Alex accepted the scroll, a surge of excitement replacing his initial apprehension. Aethel might be a harsh world, but it offered challenges and possibilities his old life never could. Now, with his unique skill and the enigmatic Revenant class, he was ready to write his own story.